If you’re a cat lover, you know that keeping your feline friend safe and happy is a top priority. One way to do this is by building an outdoor enclosure, a safe outdoor space where your cat can enjoy the fresh air while staying protected from the dangers of the outside world. This post is all about what to put in a catio.

But what should you put in your catio to make it the ultimate cat playground? Here are some must-haves, nice-to-haves, and decor preferences to consider.

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What to Put in a Catio: Must-Haves

Creating safe space in your cat’s enclosed playground ensures they will have a secure, but stimulating outdoor experience. In order to make sure your cat’s catio is functional, comfortable, and enjoyable, there are a few must-have items that you should include.

These are what we consider necessary catio supplies. There are many other catio accessories that can be added (we discuss further down) we consider ‘nice to have’, first let’s make sure the necessities are fulfilled.

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Catio Furniture

Cats love to climb, and perch, so providing them with a variety of elevated surfaces to explore is a must. Consider installing shelves, perches, and even cat trees to give your cat plenty of vertical space to play and relax.

Water Bowl

Cats need access to fresh water at all times, so include a water bowl in your setup. Consider adding a fountain for added stimulation and hydration.

A water fountain or make shift pond is a super nice way to upgrade an enclosure, but any bowl with water will be enough for the must-have catio supply.

Safe Enclosure

Your catio should be fully enclosed to prevent your cat from escaping or encountering other animals.

There are several ways to get one installed; you can DIY or higher a catio builder. Either way, it is very important to make sure you are using solid material and that it is escape artist proof for the extra clever feline who might be a little too curious.

Other predators can also bust into a flimsy catio so never leave your cats unattended and definetly do not leave them out overnight with out a way to get back into your house.

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Nice-to-Haves

Litter Box

If your cat spends a significant amount of time in the catio, consider adding a litter box for their convenience. Make sure to clean it regularly to maintain a healthy environment.

RELATED: The Ultimate Guide To Cleaning Your Cat Litter Box

Cat-Friendly Plants

Adding some greenery can be aesthetically pleasing and provide some mental stimulation for your cat. However, make sure to choose plants that are safe for cats, such as catnip, wheatgrass, and spider plants.

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Outdoor Cat Toys

Providing your cat with toys to play with can make their outdoor experience even more enjoyable. Consider adding toys specifically designed for outdoor use, such as balls, tunnels, and scratching posts.

Decor Preferences

Color Scheme

Consider choosing a color scheme for your catio that complements your home’s exterior or your cat’s fur color. This can make the space more visually appealing and cohesive.

Comfortable Seating

If you plan on spending time with your cat in the catio, include comfortable seating for yourself. This can be anything from a bench to a lounge chair.

Lighting

Adding some outdoor lighting can make the cat enclosure usable at all hours of the day or night. Consider adding string lights or solar-powered lanterns for a cozy ambiance.

Creating the ultimate outdoor cat enclosure for your cat can be a fun and rewarding project. By including must-haves like cat shelves and perches, a water bowl, and a safe enclosure, along with nice-to-haves like a litter box, cat-friendly plants, and outdoor cat toys, you can create a space that your cat will love. And by incorporating your decor preferences, you can make your catio a stylish and comfortable addition to your home.

Style

You can take this to the next level by styling it to match your aesthetic preferences.

One idea is to match your cat furniture to your patio furniture. If you have a modern style, try incorporating sleek, minimalist cat furniture into your catio. On the other hand, if you have a more traditional style, consider using wooden cat furniture with a classic design.

Another option is to stick with a particular theme or style. For example, you could create a tropical-themed catio with palm trees, bright colors, and a hammock for your cat to lounge in. Or, if you prefer a more rustic look, consider using natural materials like wood and stone to create a cozy, cabin-like atmosphere.

When it comes to adding color, the possibilities are endless. Try adding colorful liners to your cat shelves or incorporating brightly colored toys and accessories. Around the holidays, you can decorate your catio with seasonal decorations. For example, you could use pastel colors and Easter-themed decorations in the spring, or string Christmas lights around your catio in December and January.

Overall, styling your catio is a fun and creative way to make it your own and create a space that both you and your cat will love.

Adding things to your catio can be fun and easy. Creating a plan, strategy, shopping list and a to-do-list will all help you build and design the best feline playground ever!

This post is all about what to put in a catio.